Ginko

(Ginkgo Biloba)

Also called: Maidenhair tree, memory tree.

Source: Commercial production takes place mainly in France, China and south Carolina.

Part used: Leaf.

Actions: leaves - circulatory stimulant, vasodilator; seeds - anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, astringent

Medicinal Uses: All forms of cerebral insufficiency, including short-term memory loss, dizziness, Alzheimer's disease, tinnitus, impotence.

Research in the past decade has highlighted its action as a platelet-activating factor (PAF) which counters the allergic response - reinforcing its traditional use as an anti-asthmatic.
It is generally beneficial for many circulatory ailments (including, according to some researchers, varicose veins).
In Germany it has been tested on patients after brain surgery following strokes and been found to improve recovery rates dramatically.
Its action in strengthening the cerebral circulation has led to its use in the treatment of Menieres disease and tinnitus and as an anti-ageing remedy, since hardening of the arteries in the brain is a common cause of apparent confusion in the elderly.

Forms available: Teas, capsules, liquid extracts. Some products are standardised to 24 per cent flavone glycosides.

Preparation an Dosage: Ginkgo is widely sold as a food supplement and can be usefully taken by the elderly or those with chronic circulatory disorders. Typical dose is around 200 mg of extract or 2 g of powdered herb a day.

Caution: May interact with MAO inhibitors (antidepressants) and anticoagulant drugs. Rare cases of gastrointestinal upset and headaches have been reported.

Important information: At risk in the wild.

Ginkgo is something of a botanical anachronism a rare, prehistoric deciduous conifer, unchanged since before the evolution of mammals.
It owes its survival to preservation as a sacred plant in Japanese temple gardens and was introduced into Europe in 1727 when it became popular as a botanical garden ornamental.
Some of Europe's oldest ginkgo trees - also known as maidenhair trees - can be found in the Chelsea Physic Garden in London and the Jardin des Plantes in Pans.
Although the Chinese have prescribed the seeds for asthma and urinary problems for many centuries, it is only in the past few years that the herb has been used medicinally in the West.